Carbohydrates from our diet which are not digested and thus unavailable to the body are called dietary fibres. These are mostly present in vegetables and grains.
They have several important roles such as:-
- Prevents constipation by drawing fluid into intestinal lumen and increasing bowel motility
- Improves glucose tolerance and insulin response by decreasing glucose absorption in intestine.
- Decreases the absorption of cholesterol and increases degradation of cholesterol by binding with the bile salts , thereby reduces the risk of heart attacks
- Prevents the contact of carcinogens and toxins with intestinal epithelium, thereby reducing the risk of cancer. The toxins are adsorbed on the fibers.
- Increases satiety and gives a sensation of stomach fullness. Therefore, it is used in weight management.